Five Top Entry-Level IT Jobs for Getting Your Foot in the Door

Several lucrative career paths within the information technology field are in high demand and offer competitive salaries. Recent graduates with IT degrees have the knowledge and skills needed to help land an entry-level position and get a foot in the door as tech support specialists, software developers, computer system analysts, cloud infrastructure engineers, and technical writers. Here's a closer look at these five entry-level IT jobs, their projected salaries and growth rates, and the skills new graduates should expect to bring to the table.

Tech Support Specialist

The primary responsibility of technical support specialists is to solve problems that end users and customers have with computer systems and software. Their responsibilities may include troubleshooting by testing and evaluating networks and internet systems, as well as performing regular maintenance and solving a range of IT problems. Tech support specialists are often critical thinkers who pay close attention to details and have strong problem-solving skills.

The median salary for tech support specialists is around $63,460, and jobs are expected to see 8% growth through 2029.

Software Developer

End users must be able to operate software and process information confidently and efficiently. It's the job of software developers to design programs and software that offer a high-quality user experience and meet each user's needs. By writing code, collaborating with software architects and other developers, and analyzing what users expect from software on computers and mobile devices, software developers work to streamline software, programs, and applications for maximum accessibility and functionality.

Software developers can expect a median salary of around $105,510 and a job growth outlook of 22% through 2029.

Computer System Analyst

Computer system analysts primarily bring business and IT together. By solving problems, evaluating emerging technology, and finding new ways to make current computer systems more functional, systems analysts collaborate with management to understand and address a business's many IT needs. This may include testing new hardware and software, analyzing data, and overseeing the installation and implementation of new systems and technologies.

Computer system analyst positions should see 7% growth through 2029 with an annual median salary at $90,920.

Cloud Infrastructure Engineer

Cloud systems offer a way to securely store data online in the absence of an extensive physical computing infrastructure. In addition to designing and developing these cloud networks, cloud infrastructure engineers also create systems that connect clients and end users to cloud storage so that they may be used easily and efficiently. Cloud engineers may also be required to research new cloud technologies and upgrade a company's software and networks for enhanced security and cloud access.

The median wage for cloud infrastructure engineers is about $112,690, and the job is expected to grow by 5% through 2029.

Technical Writer

Tech companies often offer complex and highly technical products, processes, and services. Technical writers are tasked with producing operating manuals, official documents, white papers, diagrams, and instructions that are clear, objective, and informative. By collaborating with product designers and creators, technical writers simplify complex information into understandable terms.

Technical writers receive a median salary of $72,850 and can expect 7% job growth through 2029.

Entry-Level IT Job Requirements

Landing an entry-level IT job can provide an excellent foot in the door toward a successful career in information technology. Companies typically require most applicants for these roles to have an IT bachelor's degree from a reputable institution and some level of hands-on experience. Students and recent graduates can obtain the necessary experience through internships or by networking with peers and potential employers.

Earning a degree in information technology can help you to advance your current career or set out on a new career path. At Tulane School of Professional Advancement, we offer bachelor's and master's degree programs in IT to prepare you for a wide range of professional tech roles. To learn more about our IT degree and certificate programs, request more information today.